Billy Thompson

Billy studied a Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT at Kendal College as he has always been fascinated with computers and had a passion for computer programming.

Why did you decide to come to Kendal College?I visited the College during an Open Day and met the tutor. She was brilliant and easy to talk to. I really liked the atmosphere and all the staff I met were so helpful and friendly.

What was the teaching style like on your course?The best I’ve ever had. My tutor was so knowledgeable and was genuinely interested in my motivation and enthusiasm to learn. The process I needed to work through to achieve the grades I needed was simplified by the level of teaching and understanding. We were taught theory and also had practical sessions in which we could practice the skills needed for the work environment. This includes soft skills such as teamwork. Basically, I loved this course!

Was College like you had expected. If not, why?It was better than I expected. The course had a wide variety of units to choose from and each one was studied in depth. Each unit was connected to the next one, which gave me the opportunity to reflect on what I have previously learnt and build on that knowledge. This helped me to build my confidence and motivation to achieve the best grades I could.

What opportunities did College offer you as a student?The work experience I was able to complete as part of my course was exceptional. My tutor helped to secure a placement, which matched my interests. I attended an interview, which was scary at first until I realised that the questions I was being asked related directly to what I had been learning in class. Following my work experience, I was offered a Summer job with the company.

What are you doing now?I’m currently working as a web designer and developer for BFI web agency in Cumbria as well as an independent mobile app developer. After six months of working for the same agency I have learned a vast amount about new technologies and enjoy every project I work on.

What do you enjoy most about your current work?The thing that I like most about my job is seeing how happy our clients are when a website that I have developed allows them to grow their online business. I also enjoy keeping up with the latest technologies and knowing that every new project will involve something that I haven’t come across before, allowing me to better my skills.

Tell us more about the independent work you’re doing, that sounds exciting…It’s going well and I’ve just released the game ‘Reapption’ for iOS and Android… here are the links:

What advice would you give to someone interested in working in web design?The first thing I would point out to anyone wanting to become a web designer and developer is to ensure you create a portfolio of past projects. It doesn’t matter whether it is full of small projects that you have created for yourself, as long as you have something to show to potential employers/clients. Practice is much more valuable than theory in this industry.

What would you like to be doing in 10 years time?In 10 years’ time I see myself continuing to work as a web designer and developer whilst releasing new mobile apps or working as an independent mobile app developer full-time.

Would you recommend studying at Kendal College?I have already recommended the College to school students I know. The teaching standard is brilliant. The tutors are really aware of the current job market and the skills and knowledge employers are looking for.

If you could give 1 piece of advice to people considering College, what would it be?College is brilliant, but be prepared to meet deadlines for completing assignments and attend every lesson. The options for study or employment once you have completed your course are numerous and sometimes unexpected. It is important to focus on what you are being taught in order to achieve your goals.